Home Comforts Special Interest Tour | Walk & Talk with Janet O'Dell

Friday 12 Dec 2025, 2:00 PM – 3:30 PM

The Home Comforts exhibition features a collection of historical quilts from the collection of Melbourne-based textile researcher and historian, Janet O’Dell. Join Janet for this special 'Walk & Talk' as she shares insights about these beautiful, but rarely-exhibited textiles.

Janet O'Dell is an experienced independent quilt researcher, quiltmaker, and antique quilt collector. Since 2005, she has actively participated in international quilt study groups, seminars, and exhibitions. Her leadership roles include serving as Patron and Past President of Victorian Quilters Inc. She is an accredited quilt appraiser and judge, and has contributed as a guest curator and volunteer in various quilt-related institutions in Australia and overseas. With a professional background in business administration and adult education, Janet is now retired and dedicates her time to quilt and textile research and travel.

Your ticket includes:

- tea or Market Lane coffee on arrival, served from our Wedgwood fine bone china

- an introduction to The Johnston Collection by one of our knowledgeable Volunteer Guides

- an intimate tour experience led by embroidery experts from The Embroiderers Guild, Victoria with no more than 8 visitors per guide (groups of up to 22 are welcome)

- time to explore a wide range of exclusive gifts, books, and homewares at TJC Emporium

This exhibition is supported by The Friends of The Johnston Collection.

Image: Installation view of The Johnston Collection, 2025. Photo: Adam Luttick.